The effects from Covid-19 could impact the Clean Air Sheffield plans

It’s clear everyone has been touched in some way by the Covid-19 pandemic - be it the effect on the health and well-being of family and friends to the pressures that come with being a key worker.
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Despite these challenges, it remains vital that communities do all they can during this crisis to protect public health, and the people of Sheffield have gone on to make heroic efforts to cope with the pandemic.

Over the past year, Sheffield has been working to improve air quality, with many schemes including the proposed Clean Air Zone. Air pollution affects everyone, one way or another, from those susceptible to its impacts especially the elderly, to young children or those with a pre-existing health conditions.

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The current direction from Government to implement a Clean Air Zone was based on options submitted in December 2018 which set out proposals for the most appropriate measures at that time. Further analysis and significant consultation on this plan were undertaken in summer 2019.

Sheffield City Council will continue to work with Government’s Joint Air Quality Unit to develop the final plans and agree when it will be delivered.Sheffield City Council will continue to work with Government’s Joint Air Quality Unit to develop the final plans and agree when it will be delivered.
Sheffield City Council will continue to work with Government’s Joint Air Quality Unit to develop the final plans and agree when it will be delivered.

However, the situation has changed significantly and unexpectedly due to the global Covid-19 pandemic and there has been a recorded drop in air pollution of up to 33% in January to August of this year compared to the same period in 2019.

In finalising clean air plans, Sheffield City Council will review the possible impacts of COVID-19 on businesses, transport, and air quality. That process will help determine if the same action is needed, or if changes can be made to be successful in reducing air pollution for the long term.

Bob Johnson, Cabinet Member for Transport and Development, Said: “We know that air pollution disproportionately harms the poorest, and most deprived areas. Action to improve the air we all breathe in Sheffield is essential and everyone has a role to play.

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“However we are reviewing our plans for the Clean Air Zone in light of Coronavirus. If we can hold onto clean air by introducing other measures without resorting to charging people, we believe this is the best way forward. Alternative measures include incentives for upgrading vehicles, better provision for walking and cycling, and cleaner public transport.

“Many of the businesses who will need to upgrade their vehicles in order to be compliant with the CAZ are focusing, quite rightly, on controlling the spread of the virus, and working to keep people safe, local people in jobs and businesses afloat.

“With the right clean air plan and crucially, with the right funding from the Government, we can reduce pollution in a fair way, and in a way that is aligned with our zero-carbon goals.

Tom Sutton, Head of Policy & Representation at Sheffield Chamber of Commerce Said: “Given the changed circumstances as a result of Covid-19 it is right to look again at the best way to improve air quality across Sheffield. We welcome the review into the alternative ways we could meet the required air pollution reductions.

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"We look forward to working with the Council to think through the impacts that Covid-19 has had on business, transport and travel patterns, and how we can address air quality without placing an undue burden on local businesses, many of who, are facing unprecedented challenges”

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